What is the best space-saving home gym equipment to burn calories? This is a common ask among millions. Though different experts have different opinions, you have one answer if you consider all goods. The best mini stepper machine can keep you active anytime, anywhere, to find fitness. The portable good is unique for cardio and lower body strength training. You can take it to the office or use it under the desk anytime. You don’t have to stand all the time to burn body fats.
A stepper machine replicates the action of climbing stairs. Because of climbing action, it mainly focuses on lower body strengthening. These machines can be either corded or cordless. You will also find an up/down stepper and twister stepper for specific uses. The unit not only increases muscle endurance but also tones body shape. It also offers one of the best cardio workouts to keep yourself fit. Let’s find out more about the best mini stepper machines in 2022.
Top 5 Best Mini Stepper Machines
- Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper with Resistance Bands
- Sunny Health & Fitness Twist Stepper – NO. 045
- Bionic Body NS-1009 Elliptical Mini Stepper Trainer
- Xiser Commercial Mini Stairmaster, Black
- Marcy MS-95 Home Cardio Exercise Mini Stepper
1. Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper with Resistance Bands
Sunny Health and mini stepper are among the market’s best for their whole-body workout support. It features removable training bands for easy workouts. You can try low-impact aerobic exercise and cardio while engaging 20 core muscles.
The unit is constructed with industrial-strength steel and is long-lasting. It also has an LCD console to track speed, time, calories, etc. Its foam-padded resistance bands ensure comfy, while the non-slip grip assures safety.
This machine is also unique for its hydraulic drive system. So, it provides smoothness in stepping motion. Its large textured footplates assure comfortable, safe non-slip footing. Furthermore, the lightweight, portable unit comes in an affordable range.
Pros:
- Slip-resistance footplates.
- Removable resistance bands.
- Total Body Workout.
- LCD monitor.
Cons:
- The unit is squeaky.
2. Sunny Health & Fitness Twist Stepper – NO. 045
Are you searching for the best twist stepper? Then take a look at this unit. It has everything you need. Its twisting action can challenge your cardio workouts. Also, it is a machine with a low-impact whole-body workout.
To add more, it features removable resistance belts for upper-body workouts. You can try the strength training program for the chest, back, arms, and shoulder. Besides, it has non-slip foot pedals for your workout safety.
This equipment is also unique for its adjustable height. However, it is constructed with steel. Like other stepper machines, it has an LCD console to track your workout records. But considering its price, it’s a worthy package to go with. The product can weigh up to 20 pounds and can hold up to a maximum of 250 pounds.
Pros:
- Adjustable height.
- Digital monitor.
- Non-slip foot pedals.
Cons:
- No warranty period
3. Bionic Body NS-1009 Elliptical Mini Stepper Trainer
The bionic body elliptical is the machine for all needs. It’s all in one workstation that allows upper and lower body workouts. Importantly, it is a machine that works as a stepper and elliptical at a time. Besides, it features resistance tubes for exclusive upper-body workouts.
This unit is also unique for its adjustable magnetic resistance levels. You can adjust the resistance level and tailor your workout programs. Just like others, it has to keep track of your progress. You can track the number of strides per minute, calories burned, exercise time, etc.
That’s not all! This unit has slip-resistant pedals for your workout safety. Also, you can add heavy-duty resistance bands for a diverse variation. To add more, this compact unit allows you to sweat both sitting and standing. Furthermore, this lightweight home gym equipment offers. It is mild in weight; that means you can easily carry it to the office or where you need it.
Pros:
- Adjustable magnetic resistance.
- Electronic fitness monitor.
- Slip-resistant pedals.
Cons:
- The unit is a bit heavy.
4. Xiser Commercial Mini Stairmaster, Black
Are you looking for a stepper that is exceptional? If yes, then watch out for Xiser Commercial Mini Stairmaster. It is the only stepper that can be used for aerobic protocols and sprint training HIT.
Furthermore, it is also the lightest stepper in the market that weighs only 13.5 lbs. Also, it is a unit that is easy to assemble and disassemble within minutes. That’s not all! Its ergonomically optimum design is built with cast Aircraft Alloy.
Because of its dimension, it can be easily folded. It is also the best stepper in terms of its support capacity. It can sustain loads up to 400 lbs. The Made in USA unit is also diverse in its uses. You can try this for muscle strengthening, posture improvement, fat burning, etc. Though it is expensive but it is long-lasting.
Pros:
- Adjustable resistance.
- The lightest stepper in the market.
- Biomechanically ergonomics.
- Cast aircraft alloy.
Cons:
- It is expensive.
5. Marcy MS-95 Home Cardio Exercise Mini Stepper
Marcy MS-95 is the best comfortable stepper to go with. The machine comes with heavy steel frame construction and is also lightweight. This home gym equipment is also cool as it can sustain loads up to 250 lbs.
The unit also features extra-wide non-slip pedals and ergonomic handles for safe and comfy workouts. That’s not all! The space-saving design and affordable price make it a top choice. To hit the final dust, it has skid-resistant floor protectors. So it avoids any slip-off during intense exercise.
This Mini Stepper uses a hydraulic drive system to withstand shock despite intense pressure. LCD computer displays have been used to count, display time, and burn calories.
Pros:
- Hydraulic drive system.
- Space-saving compact design.
- Skid-resistant floor protectors.
- Ergonomic handles.
Cons:
- The unit is a bit squeaky.
What are Stepper Machines?
A stepper machine resembles more of a staircase climbing. It is a machine that offers low-impact aerobic workouts for all different age groups. This machine has a customized resistance level to work your lower body strengthening. Because of high-intensity pedal movement, your muscles stretch. Mainly the lower body muscles like hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, and to some extent, your booty.
It resembles running up the stairs, so it presses some stress on your heart. Because of added stress, the heart pumps more blood, and there is more oxygen supply to your muscles. Expert says 20 minutes daily on a stepper will cut most of your body fats. It is possible to burn more than 200 calories daily with low-impact workouts.
Furthermore, most stepper machines have an LCD console to track your progress. You can find the number of strides per minute, calories burned, scans, total exercise time, etc. Also, there are machines with removable resistance bands. That allows you to strengthen your upper body muscles as well. The best of all include its lightweight and portable option. You can try it anywhere, even under the desk- sitting or standing.
Types of Stepper Machines
Are all steppers the same? No, there are differences among its variants. We have five major categories of a stepper with unique specifications or so. Let’s dive deep.
i. The side Stepper Machines
This stepper is exclusive as it helps to step from side to side. Because of such action, it can target your inner and thigh muscles. This stepper is excellent for shaping your thighs from all different angles. Most athletes, like sprint runners, try this as a core item.
ii. The stair stepper Machine
If you need the best balance and stable unit, the stair stepper is the best. Though heavier than other stepper machines, it provides extra stability in workouts. No matter how heavy you are? This machine is ready to sustain sumo. You will feel like long staircase climbing and challenge cardio every time you use it.
iii. The Twister Stepper Workout Machine
As the name suggests, it twists every time you exercise. Because of twisting, you can target your core, abs, and oblique muscles. That’s more of a bodybuilding purpose. Besides, the extra stretch targets your tummy and tones your lower body portion. This equipment comes with removable resistance bands for comfortable workouts.
iv. The Mini Stepper Machine
When you run out of space, then try the mini stepper. This is just the miniature version of a large stepper. These variants have no handles and are challenging to balance in standing workouts. It is usually used while sitting and trying to run workouts under the desk. The best of all types for the office or at home. It’s easy, simple, and effective.
v. The Elliptical Stepper Machine
The elliptical works both on the upper and lower body muscles. It has elliptical arms for the ease of workout purposes. So, it is practical to tone the whole body’s muscles. People try this for fat loss and calorie burn-out issues. They are lightweight, and you can track all your workout progress.
vi. Safety Measures
The footplates must be non-slip to create some friction with the foot. Give more priority to the products with safety band straps over foot pedals. Other than that, look for skid-resistant floor protectors. That is important to prevent unwanted slip-off during an intense workout session.
Who Are Most Suitable for Stepper Machines?
There is no restriction on any age group for stepper machine use. Besides, some people can prioritize this option on a high note. They are-
- Someone who desires to tone leg muscles without getting them larger.
- Someone with a space crisis desires weight loss and muscle strengthening.
- iii. People who get the least chance of climbing stairs.
- Any person with weakness and lower body injuries.
- People who have to work long hours on sitting.
Things to Consider before buying Stepper Machines
Before you buy a stepper, you better know some parameters to determine the best for you. Here is what you need to look into a stepper machine.
I. Step Height
This is crucial in terms of exercise patterns. Generally, the stepper should have a standard height of 8 inches. But, there are machines that have a height of 6 inches to 12 inches. Other than that, you will find a unit with height adjustment features. You have to pick the right height for the betterment of your workout.
II. Resistance adjustment
It would help if you found a machine with an adjustable resistance option. Because of different resistance levels, you can challenge your workouts to a different height. Also, look for units with an instruction manual for easy operation.
III. Removable Resistance Bands
Not all stepper machines have removable resistance bands. These rubber bands allow you to go for upper-body workouts. You can build more muscular biceps, shoulders, and back. Because of the low-impact workout, this works great to relieve unusual back pain. Also, you can remove it and focus back on your lower body exercises.
IV. Customer Reviews
This is one of the most important parameters when buying it online. It is easier to judge product quality if you have previous experience with it. So, it is always better to go through some customer reviews on that product. You will find both positive and negative comments on it. Do not neglect the negative ones. These are the potential problems that you may face with this product. Check its ratings and the percentage of people that gave it a good rating.
V. Check product dimensions
Stepper machines are famous for their space-saving features, so look at the product’s dimensions. Get an idea of the floor space and size of your new equipment. Some options are foldable and easy to store. In such a case, you can go bold for the masterpiece.
VI. LCD Console
LCD console is a mandatory lookup in a stepper machine. This allows you to track your workout progress. You must know your calories burn, strides per minute, exercise time, scan, and more. It is essential to set goals for an effective workout on the stepper.
VII. Warranty
The last thing that every customer should always look for is the warranty. Only a few of them offer a warranty on purchase. You can get up to 2 years of warranty for an expensive stepper. But, most of the time, the warranty frame falls under a year or so.
Stair or Stepper
Stair or stepper, which is a better option. Why would I need a stepper when running on stairs is more available and free of cost? Let’s compare some facts.
- Moving up/downstairs has more impacts on joints. So, it is difficult for the elderly, fat, or people to have lower-body injuries. Because of the low impact, the stepper trumps this logic.
- Running all days down and up the stairs can bother the rest of your household. On the other hand, the stepper is smooth and space-saving. So, stepper wins again.
- iii. Running down and up the same staircase flight can surely bore you. At the same time, you can work on stepper and enjoy a movie, TV or sports. So, the stepper’s win continues.
- Tracking your workout records while sweating on a staircase is almost impossible. Besides, a stepper has an LCD console to track all your progress. You can set a target and intensify your workouts. So, stepper won all its logical facts.
Benefits of Mini Stepper
The benefits of mini stepper include-
- It tones your lower body muscles. Not only tones but also strengthens your lower and core muscles.
- It is a space-saving option.
- The unit is lightweight and portable.
- Mini steppers are perfect for aerobic and cardio workouts.
- It has a low impact on your joints.
- It increases muscle endurance.
- This burns calories. Hence, great equipment for weight loss.
- You can enjoy workouts in front of the TV.
- It is easy to assemble.
- The unit is relatively inexpensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is stepper as good as walking?
Ans: Stepper is better than walking as you can increase your resistance and burn more calories. That is more like jogging, or a much-intensified version can be compared with running.
Q: Does the stepper burn belly fat?
Ans: As the stepper burns calories, so it also has an impact on burning belly fats. Besides, if the stepper allows whole-body workouts and has removable resistance bands, it can push hard on the belly. Twister stepper works great on abs and cuts a significant amount of belly fat.
Q: Does a mini stepper helps to tone bums?
Ans: Mini Stepper can be an excellent option to shape your buttocks. That is because stepping works directly on the glutes. So, a regular workout will shape your bum anyway.
Q: What muscles do a mini stepper works best?
Ans: Mini Stepper works exclusively to strengthen the lower body and tone your figure, so it is best for lower body muscles. The stepper movement will benefit your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calf muscles.
Q: How efficient is a mini stepper to burn calories?
Ans: A study at Harvard health publication found that it will burn 180 calories for a 125-pound person in just 30 minutes—the calorie burn increases as the weight increases. Someone with 185 pounds can burn nearly 300 calories in the same time frame.
Final Verdict
Buying a stepper for a home gym is no luxury at all. It is lightweight, portable, and serves the good that most people demand. Yes, from weight loss to muscle strengthening, lower body toning to cardio – it has every good combination you need. Importantly, it serves the good even if you enjoy the best TV show. The low-impact aerobic workouts are always on the card to keep you healthy and fit. Try magic. You are never too late.
